Le Sivadal
Story of the House
The name ‘Le Sivadal’ has proved something of a mystery. It appears to derive from the Occitan (the ancient local dialect) for ‘the place of planted oats’.
When Le Sivadal was bought by the Battle family in 1999 it had been empty for over nine years. A major renovation was needed. The family wanted to create a spacious, welcoming and informal house which would provide a setting for large family holidays, somewhere to enjoy the company of friends, and which could also be a comfortable retreat for one or two couples.
The old house was converted into bedrooms and bathrooms while the adjoining farm buildings, forge, cattle byre and hay loft became the large new kitchen, sitting room and gallery.
Outside, different areas were created for eating and relaxing to make the most of sun or shade and views over the surrounding countryside. Although some areas have been planted with new trees, shrubs and perennials, a large part of the land has been left as field which is simply cut once a year after the abundant orchids and other wild flowers have set seed.
In summer a focal point is the large swimming pool with its spacious, sunny terrace with shade provided by a small pool shelter and tall bamboos.
One of the great pleasures of Le Sivadal is being able to see and enjoy the natural world. In summer, sitting out in the evening under a ceiling of stars; sighting hares, deer, the occasional wild boar and lots of lizards; the sounds of frogs, crickets, owls, mewing buzzards; spotting redstarts, blackcaps, little and barn owls, hoopoes and (despite their bright yellow feathers) the elusive but vocal oriels; finding orchids and other wild flowers and grasses.
As guests have commented, Le Sivadal is the ideal place to relax. It encourages a slower pace; the antidote to the fast lane of urban living.
As we hope guests will recognise, Le Sivadal remains our family holiday home and not just a gite. We are delighted that more people can now enjoy its special atmosphere.